Headset Final Thoughts

The freedom that comes from using a wireless headset cannot be understated. Any user that spends multiple hours a day tethered to their desk by a headset will appreciate the benefits of going wireless. Having the option to sit on the couch while talking on Skype, or go to the kitchen while waiting to respawn is even better than I had hoped. The Logitech ClearChat PC Wireless has lived up to, and in many cases exceeded, my expectations. It's extremely comfortable, so much so that I often forget that I'm wearing it, and the sound is clear and crisp. With that said, the wireless nature of the device requires some compromise in exchange for that freedom, primarily the sensitivity of the wireless signal to other devices in the area. Nevertheless many users, myself included, will find those compromises a small price to pay for the freedom the ClearChat PC Wireless provides.

Logitech ClearChat PC Wireless Conclusion

As usual, Logitech includes everything the user will need, all in a compact, attractive package. The headset is clearly visible, and obviously well-built. Since the ClearChat uses the default USB audio drivers in Windows and Mac OS X, the package doesn't contain a driver disc, and setup is completely painless.

The ClearChat PC Wireless is noticeably high-quality from the moment that you pick it up. It's clear that a great deal of thought and care went into its design and construction. The ClearChat will look appropriate in any environment, whether in the office or at home. While I think the headset is quite attractive, some may find the black and brushed-metal look rather dull, with the only lights being subtle LED indicators.

The materials used in the construction of the ClearChat are high-quality and durable. The design is flexible, yet tough, and should survive fairly rough handling. The cushions on the headphones are particularly comfortable and high quality, giving you the impression that this headset will last you for years. The only real shortcoming is the bizarre choice to include a wall-plug charging cable that is both propriety and cumbersome, instead of an almost-universal mini-USB port.

Wireless technology will always have its limitations, and the ClearChat PC Wireless is no exception. The sound and microphone data can be disrupted by strong electrical noise, and the wireless receiver must be carefully placed to ensure the headset is at peak performance. The wireless audio protocol seems to limit bass response as well, leading to a slightly tinny music, and slightly nasal vocal recording, although these problems are both fairly subtle. With all of this said, the headset was tested in a very electromagnetically "noisy" environment, and these shortcomings are minimal with respect to the benefits that come from being wireless. Wireless devices should let you work where and when you want, and this one delivers. The ClearChat PC Wireless lives up to its promises with excellent battery life and crystal clear audio.

As of mid-November 2009 Newegg lists three RF Wireless Stereo Headsets, and the Logitech ClearChat PC Wireless is the most expensive of those at $71.99. Further searching with our Price Comparison Tool revealed additional retailers with better pricing. The competing Plantronics .Audio 995 has similar features at a similar price, while the ASUS HS-1000W is $20 cheaper and claims up to three times the range. However, the high build quality, compact size and light weight of the Logitech ClearChat PC Wireless make it a compelling offering despite the higher price, particularly for users that wear their headsets for many hours at a time.

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Comments

How well does the the Logitech ClearChat PC Wireless Headset 981-000068 work with various talk to text programs. Are there other less expensive wireless system out there that do as good or better then this new system from Logitech when it comes to feeding talk to text programs. And how about the effectiveness of some of the over the ear systems such as Plantronics Voyager 520 and others